Before the day
- The engineer's design and building control approval are in place
- Any Party Wall agreements are signed
- The steel has been measured on site, made and delivered (or is arriving that morning)
- Access is clear: parking, a route through the house, and somewhere to put the steel down
1. Temporary support
The wall above the new opening is supported with props and, where needed, steel "needles" through the wall. This must follow the temporary works design or method statement.
2. Opening up and padstones
The opening is cut and the bearings are prepared. Padstones (concrete or engineering brick) spread the beam's load into the wall below.
3. Lifting the beam in
Lighter beams are lifted by hand with enough people; heavier ones with lifting gear such as a gantry, chain blocks or a crane. Long or heavy beams may be delivered in pieces and bolted together on site.
4. Packing and fixing
The beam is levelled on steel shims, then the gap above is packed tight with slate or dry-pack mortar so the wall bears evenly on the steel. Bolted connections are tightened and checked.
5. Inspection and removing props
Building control usually inspects the steel and bearings before it is covered. Props come out once the packing has gained strength, often after a day or so.
6. Fire protection and finishing
The steel is boxed in or plastered to give the fire protection building control needs, and the room is finished.
How to prepare
- Clear the room and protect floors and furniture
- Arrange parking or a suspension for the delivery vehicle
- Tell the neighbours, especially if there is a Party Wall agreement
- Keep children and pets away from the work area
Plan the delivery with our delivery vehicle planner, and read about padstones.